Pumpkin Turkey Chili – High Protein Fall Comfort Food

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

When the crisp fall air sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Pumpkin Turkey Chili. This cozy one-pot meal is hearty, flavorful, and packed with protein the perfect balance of sweet pumpkin and savory spices. It’s ideal for Easy Fall Dinner Ideas Healthy lovers who crave comfort without the guilt. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and oh-so-delicious.

Prep Time: 30 min | Cook Time: 45 min | Total Time: 1 hr 15 min | Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 pound lean ground turkey (96% lean preferred)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 1 (14-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or brown sugar
• ¾–1 cup chicken stock

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the veggies:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Brown the turkey:
Add ground turkey and another sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s nicely browned.

Add the spices:
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes to let the spices bloom and flavor the meat.

Build the chili base:
Stir in pumpkin puree, fire-roasted tomatoes, beans, maple syrup, and chicken stock. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Simmer to perfection:
Cover and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve & enjoy:
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorites — sour cream, avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips, or shredded cheese. Cozy, hearty, and totally satisfying!

Pro Tip: Double the batch for Cheap Dinners For A Family or freeze leftovers for busy weeknights.

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Pro Tips

• Slow cooker version: Brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
• Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Flavor boost: Add a splash of lime juice or hot sauce for an extra kick!

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

A Cozy Fall Classic

This Pumpkin Turkey Chili is everything fall comfort food should be — hearty, colorful, and nourishing. It’s one of those Easy Dinner Recipes For Family that feels special but takes minimal effort. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a fall gathering, this bowl of goodness will warm you from the inside out.

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